I’m taking a self-reliance class called Starting and Growing My Own Business. The “starting and growing” is mighty slow going, but the foundational principles for each week’s lesson are immediate and wonderful.
Teddy bears in various stages of construction
Because I don’t knit on circular needles, I sort of developed my own pattern.
I generally use acrylic baby yarn (weight category 3) which makes a nice, stretchy ribbing and leg part. I think I knit a little bit loose. If you want to use heavier yarn, just advance all the needle/hook sizes up by one size.
Use size 5 needles. Cast on 40 sts. (I use the long-tail cast on method.)
R1-16: K1, P1 ribbing
Switch to size 6 needles.
R17-80: stockinette st.
Switch to size 5 needles
R81-96: K1, P1 ribbing
Use size E hook for crochet bind-off.
Use size F hook to close seam, taking special care to close the very first stitch so it doesn’t leave a gap. I use a basic slip stitch, worked loosely. Work in ends.
Tip: I use Clover brand Wonder Clips to hold the edges in place so everything stays matched up along the sewing seam. (Tried another cheaper brand and returned them.)
When was it? December 2013, I think. My friend, Heather Bullough, told me about a local crocheting service project I could get involved with. I LOVE to crochet simple items; it’s something I can do with my hands while I watch DVDs or listen to audiobooks (which are other things I LOVE to do).
This is a link to the project. I’ve participated for two years now and my donations have been received with so much enthusiasm I’m a convert for life.
http://www.hebbsters.blogspot.com/2013/05/leg-warmers.html
This is a link to the pattern I used.
http://earning-my-cape.blogspot.com/2012/02/crochet-leg-warmers-child-sized.html
Here are photos of my two donations.
June 2014–I donated 21 pairs of leg warmers.
June 2015–25 pairs this year. (I got so involved making teddy bears for Little Lambs Foundation that I slacked off on crocheting.)
“Teddy bears?” you ask. Let me show you.
A few friendly faces for Northern Utah’s foster kids.
Here’s the link for this adorable bear pattern:
http://www.shinyhappyworld.com/2014/04/warren-charity-bear-free-teddy-bear-pattern.html
Placing the pockets on the dress is a pain, so you might as well do it accurately. This is the method I’ve worked out to make it as easy and accurate as possible.
The sample shown is an Extra Large size dress with pockets measuring 6″ square (finished size).
Finished Dress (complete with pockets)!